Lotus Elise, 1998
Chassis No.: SCCGA1112WHC33074 Engine No.: 18K4FJ31671551 Registration: R862 JPF It was rumoured that at launch in Frankfurt 1996, the Lotus management were slightly disappointed with the 700-kilo figure proudly displayed as kerb weight for their new Elise. Putting that into perspective that meant you could balance the scales with one 718 Porsche Boxster convertible against two of Norfolk’s finest 90’s Series 1 versions … and they were hoping for less!! Named after Elise the granddaughter of Romano Artioli (Lotus Chairman at the time) this would be the sportscar to save the Norfolk brand, as the dated Esprit was the only offering in the Lotus range at the time. It was Richard Rackham, head of Lotus’ engineering who created a 68 kg chassis using bonded, hydroformed aluminium. Car magazine said at the time ‘The acceleration, the zest, the eye-popping ability to change speed and direction, the sheer unbridled sense of motion – these are what make driving the Elise so special and intense.’ A mere 5.5 seconds to 60mph the Elise is no slouch, courtesy in-part to Rover’s 1.8 K-series mated to a close ratio Honda derived five-speed transmission combined with an incredible power to weight ratio. This example was registered 1st April 1998. Having had two previous owners, the current custodian took over the wheel in May 2006. The original bill of sale confirms southwest London as the first home having been supplied by well-known Lotus dealers Bell & Colvill in Leatherhead. The service history is comprehensive to say the least with both original factory pack containing technical and maintenance booklets plus an additional file of invoices and MoT certificates etc. In September 2021 Country Classic Cars were tasked with returning this Lotus to top form. A ‘whatever she needs’ approach was taken and the work carried out over the following months included: full service all filters, Cambelt, water pump and coolant change, AP upgraded brake master cylinder, Competition (Compbrake) brake calipers, lines and discs, suspension upgrade to coil overs, steering and suspension parts powder coated, anti-roll bar drop links, track rod ends/ inner & outer toe link joints, ball joints/ wheel bearings, fuel tank, fuel pump & sender, handbrake cable plus equaliser, new alternator & battery, gear linkage kit and clutch master cylinder hose, throttle body, battery isolator, idle control valve, headlight covers and full specialist geometry set up including caster/camber … the owner has invested over £10k with Country Classic Cars in mechanical improvements alone. New soft top, removable steering wheel, larger alloy rims (to accommodate brake upgrade) locking wheel nuts, recent Tracmax tyres and finally a full respray in the original Mustard Yellow. It is fair to say this Elise wants for little. The exterior presents very well indeed and the recent respray is of the highest standard and the shut lines and panel gaps are exact, lights and lenses all correct whilst the black vinyl soft roof (generally stored in the boot space behind the engine) is free from damage. There is a Sony audio system, heater plus switches for lighting, cut off switch also a net for storage. Removing the steering wheel aids when sliding into place and with the seat fully back there is ample room for all but the tallest of drivers. The immobiliser stick requires a couple of seconds to release the start function and the dash lights up showing current milage of 41,503. Exact steering and a feeling of endless grip inspires confidence, the new braking system ensures stopping is even more impressive than the acceleration. This Elise not only looks right but is now ready to bring excitement and joy to a new custodian, precise and focused no doubt any outing in this Lotus will be an experience. The current MoT test certificate expires in June 2025, with just one advisory for a tired wiper blade, now replaced. Consigned by James Good. https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=17033&au=84
